Cavapoo Dog Breed Information & Characteristics (2025)

Last update Apr. 08, 2025

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About Cavapoo

Cavapoo is a designer breed obtained by crossing Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. First developed in Australia in the 1990s, the goal of the breeders was to produce a low-shedding, clever, and loving companion dog. This has produced a small, sociable, and very easy-going breed that is now popular around the globe.

Cavapoos have soft, wavy, or curly coats that can come in a variety of colors such as apricot, black, white, and cream. With their expressive eyes and playful demeanor, this makes the incredibly charming. Their affectionate and loyal tendencies make them great family pets as well as good for for families, singles, and seniors. These dogs adjust easily to their homes whether (big or small).

💡 Quick Facts About Cavapoo:

Dr. Evan Antin, says: “The Cavapoo is a wonderful option for families and first-time dog parents because of its loving disposition and size.

🐾 Thinking about adopting a Cavapoo Learn how to care for them properly!

How Big Do Cavapoos Get?

The size of a Cavapoo depends on if it was bred from a Miniature Poodle or a Toy Poodle.

Cavapoo Size Chart by Gender:

Dr. Lindsay Butzer, explains: “Moderate energy levels make a Cavapoo easier to manage than high-energy breeds like Beagles or Golden Retrievers.”

Cavapoo vs. Other Dog Breeds

Cavapoo is often compared to other popular breeds in terms of size, coat type, and adaptability.

Are Cavapoos Good Family Dogs?

Yes, Cavapoo makes a perfect family dog due to its mild temperament, friendly nature, and intelligence. They do well in family environments and like being with people.

Reasons Cavapoos Are Excellent Family Dogs:

  • Caring and faithful – They form close relationships with family members.
  • Low-shedding coat – Good for mild allergy sufferers.
  • Smart, trainable – Learn quickly, especially with positive reinforcement.
  • Those who can adapt – Simple to raise in apartments or large homes.

Do Cavapoos Get Along With Kids?

Cavapoos are great companions for children, with their gentle nature, affectionate personality and playful energy. Fetch, tug-of-war, or snuggling on the couch are all playtime activities that these dogs love, and they enjoy being around kids. With their smaller stature, they are easy to manage yet still play spirited games.

Are Cavapoos Safe for Small Children?

Cavapoos are safe to be around children, although young toddlers should always be closely supervised when interacting with one. Cavapoos are little and fragile, and rough play can inadvertently hurt them. It is important to teach children to be gentle, not to pull on ears or tails and to respect the dog’s space for a good relationship.

How to Safely Introduce Your Cavapoo to Kids:

  • Instruct your kids to walk up to the dog slowly and not make any jerky movements.
  • Oversee playtime so that interactions don’t go south.
  • Use soft petting, never pull fur or ears.
  • Give boundaries – Set up safe spots where the Cavapoo can sleep without being disturbed.

Are Cavapoos Good With Other Pets?

Yes, Cavapoos are social and friendly, and can get along great with other pets. If introduced properly, they usually get along well with dogs, cats, and even small animals. They are not as prone to chasing and intimidating other pets that are kept in the house.

Introducing a Cavapoo to Other Pets:

1. Take it Slow – Let the animals see each other from a distance first.
2. Encourage Good Behavior – Give your dog treats and praise when he is calm.
3. Supervise Early Interactions – Never leave them unattended until you know they bond.
4. Provide Each Pet Their Own Space – Separate feeding sections and sleeping areas can help prevent fights.

Cavapoos and Other Dogs

Cavapoos are friendly when they are meeting different dogs. They are fun and love to play; they are excellent partners in multi-dog households. Positive interactions with other breeds depend on early socialization.

Cavapoos and Cats

Cavapoos typically get along with cats as long as they are introduced at a young age. Because they are not overly possessive or territorial, they are much less likely to run down or bully feline companions.

Explore blogs, breed insights, and expert advice on Dosty.co!

 

How Much Exercise Does a Cavapoo Need?

Cavapoo needs moderate amounts of exercise, including daily walks and interactive playtime, to be happy and healthy. They do well with exercise but are not as high-energy as some other breeds.

Cavapoo Exercise Needs:

Activity

Duration

Walks

30-45 minutes daily

Playtime

20 minutes interactive play

Training

10-15 minutes mental stimulation

Activities for a Cavapoo:

🦮 Ground and Nature Exploration – Keeps them physically active.
🧩 Interactive Toys and Puzzle Games — Good for their bright minds.
🦴 Unleashed Play (in secure areas) — Running freely

Lack of exercise can also produce destructive behaviours like chewing furniture, and excessive barking if they're not being sufficiently exercised.

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With Dosty, you get:

Brisk reminders to walk, play, train and make vet appointments
Personalized routines custom to your dog’s age and activity level
Step tracker to motivate you to keep going and active puppy
Real dog experts provide tips specific to Cavapoos

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Are Cavapoos Easy to Train?

Yes, Cavapoos are very trainable because of their Poodle intelligence and eagerness to please. They are susceptible to positive reinforcement training and this makes them a recommended choice for novice dog owners.

Cavapoo Training Tips:

  • Begin training when they are 8 weeks old.
  • Combine with positive reinforcement — treats and praise.
  • Make the training sessions short (10-15 minutes).
  • Take them out to different people and places as much as possible so you can avoid them becoming timid.

These dogs can learn quickly, but it is important to be consistent so they don't forget the good things that they learn.

Having challenges with your Cavapoo’s stubborn side You’re not alone - potty training and basic commands can feel like a battle some days.

💡 With Dosty’s Training Program, you get:

 Cavapoo specific step by step instructions
Bite-sized, daily lessons that fit easily into your schedule
Positive reinforcement strategies that work
Track progress so you know what’s working

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How to Groom a Cavapoo?

Cavapoos have curly or wavy coats that need regular maintenance to avoid matting and tangles. Without care, their fur can become tangled, resulting in skin irritation.

Cavapoo Grooming Routine:

Grooming Task

Frequency

Brushing

3-4 times per week

Bathing

Every 4-6 weeks

Trimming

Every 6-8 weeks

Ear Cleaning

Weekly

Teeth Brushing

2-3 times per week

Cavapoo Grooming Tools You’ll Need:

✔️ Slicker Brush – Used for removing tangles and loose hair.
✔️ Dematting Comb – Good for tough knots.
✔️ HypoallergenicDog Shampoo – Reduces skin irritation.
✔️ Nail Clippers – Keeps long nails trimmed down to a healthy length

Having trouble keeping up with your Cavapoo’s grooming schedule A quick brush isn’t enough for their curly coat.

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What Health Problems Do Cavapoos Have?

Cavapoos are genetically prone to some health conditions from the breeds that beget them.

Common Cavapoo Health Issues:

Health Issue

Symptoms

Prevention/Treatment

Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)

Coughing, fatigue

Regular heart checkups

Hip Dysplasia

Difficulty walking

Weight control, supplements

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Vision loss

Routine eye exams

Ear Infections

Scratching, odor

Weekly ear cleaning

Dental Issues

Bad breath, tartar

Brushing teeth 2-3 times per week

Concerned about secret health problems in your Cavapoo From ear infections to heart concerns, the early signs are easy to overlook.

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✔ Easy symptom checker
✔ Personalized care tips
✔ Shareable health reports with your vet

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FAQs About Cavapoos

1. Do Cavapoos Bark a Lot?
Cavapoos are moderate barkers. They typically bark when they’re excited, want attention or are alerting owners to something out of the ordinary.

2. Are Cavapoos Hypoallergenic?
Cavapoos are low-shedding but not entirely hypoallergenic. They can still produce allergens, but in lower amounts than most breeds.

3. How Long Do Cavapoos Live?
Cavapoo Lifespan – 12-15 years, or longer with good care and a healthy lifestyle.

4. Are Cavapoos High Maintenance when it Comes to Grooming?
Yes, Cavapoos require regular grooming to prevent tangles in their curly or wavy coats.

5. Are Cavapoos Good for First-Time Owners?
Definitely, their intelligence, affectionate personality, and adaptability make them a perfect choice for new dog owners.

Conclusion

Cavapoos are friendly, loving, and intelligent dogs that make fantastic family pets. They suit many different households due to their low-shedding coat, manageable size and eager-to-please demeanor.

With appropriate training, daily exercise, and frequent grooming, a Cavapoo will thrive. They need love and company, making them an excellent option for owners with the time to interact with them. Cavapoo is the perfect choice for those that want a loving and trainable dog

👉 Chat with the Assistant for expert tips and grooming advice to ensure their happiness and wellbeing.